devastating / crushing
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devastating
Describes criticism, a judgment, or a statement that is extremely negative, harsh, and crushing. Such a statement often leaves no room for positive aspects.
Der Kritiker schrieb eine vernichtende Rezension über das neue Theaterstück.
The critic wrote a devastating review of the new play.
devastating
Describes an effect or event that leads to complete destruction or annihilation. It is often used in connection with great destructive force.
Der Tsunami hatte eine vernichtende Wirkung auf die gesamte Küstenregion.
The tsunami had a devastating effect on the entire coastal region.
crushing
Refers to a military or competitive defeat that is total and final. The opponent is completely defeated in the process.
Die gegnerische Armee erlitt eine vernichtende Niederlage.
The opposing army suffered a crushing defeat.
'Vernichtend' (devastating/crushing) is the present participle of the verb 'vernichten' (to destroy/annihilate). This verb literally means 'to make into nothing' and expresses total destruction, which explains the extreme strength of the adjective.
Das Feuer hatte eine vernichtende Kraft.
The fire had devastating force.
In this meaning, 'vernichtend' (devastating) describes an extremely negative evaluation. It is often combined with words such as 'Kritik' (criticism), 'Urteil' (judgment), 'Bericht' (report), or 'Rezension' (review).
Sein Urteil über den Film war vernichtend.
His judgment of the film was devastating.
In a sports or military context, 'vernichtend' (crushing) is often used with the word 'Niederlage' (defeat). You can also say that one team 'vernichtend geschlagen' (crushed/defeated decisively) the other.
Die Mannschaft musste eine vernichtende Niederlage einstecken.
The team had to suffer a crushing defeat.
devastating
A verheerend defeat has extremely serious consequences, but it does not have to be complete. A vernichtend defeat, by contrast, is total and leaves the opponent with practically no success. Use verheerend for serious consequences and vernichtend for a complete defeat.
Die Niederlage war vernichtend, denn der Verein verlor das Finale mit zwölf zu null.
The defeat was crushing because the club lost the final twelve to nil.
Die Niederlage war verheerend und kostete den Verein viele wichtige Sponsoren.
The defeat was devastating and cost the club many important sponsors.
